By Author: Art Gib
Article: I grew up with an automotive mechanic (my father) and four car enthusiasts (my brothers), so it’s no wonder that I grew up around a lot of men that held dreams of purchasing and/or restoring a classic car. My father’s model of choice was a 1956 Chevrolet, but obviously, there were numerous other cars that had their own unique appeal.
If you are right on the cusp of achieving such an aspiration, you may be wondering how you can find the best classic car for you. Do you have a particular make and model in mind, like my father, or are you simply searching for something that looks great and goes fast?
Try to envision what you are looking for, but decide on the areas that are open to compromise (color, year, etc.).
Before you set out, try to determine at least a rough budget. If you have the time and money to restore a vintage vehicle, you can easily purchase a “hunk-of-junk,” from local classified ads or other sources for a low face value, but be aware that this will be an investment that will probably include expensive parts, body work, painting, and other restorations.
That means you should try to find the best value you can, even if that means paying a little more than you originally anticipated. But try not to rush into anything, even if you think you have found exactly what you want.
Instead, keep your eyes peeled. Find out the base value of the car and then watch the newspaper, the internet, and local community events like car shows. This will give you a good feel for what the car is actually going for.
Many classic cars for sale are given a lot of extra flare, particularly in the paint job or other enhancing visual features. Sellers frequently charge inflated amounts for simple “extras,” like these, so you might shoot for something that is a little plainer and pay for those additions yourself. Plus, it will then be personalized to you taste!
Remember to find out if the engine is an original. This will actually greatly affect the price of the vehicle and give you room to haggle if it isn’t.
One alternative to purchasing a typical classic car, which will require tons of effort and maintenance, is to consider instead finding an accurate replica of your dream car. There are actually auto manufacturers that build detailed recreations of famous cars like the Shelby Cobra.
Whatever route you decide to go, you can see your aspirations fulfilled if you stay dedicated and persistent until your dream is realized. Syndication Source: ThoughtSearch.com Legendary Classics, LLC (http://www.teshelbycobra.com/)
is a CSX 4000. Art Gib is a freelance writer.